Bicarbonate of Soda for Fridge Odours: How Should You Use It?

Bicarbonate of soda (sodium bicarbonate) is a solid, crystalline chemical compound, most commonly found in the form of a fine powder. It is alkaline (pH greater than 7) and slightly basic, allowing it to react with acids and produce carbon dioxide.

Uses of bicarbonate of soda

Domestic use: Bicarbonate of soda is commonly used as a raising agent in baking. It reacts with acidic ingredients such as yoghurt, vinegar or lemon, producing carbon dioxide which makes dough and cakes rise.

Cleaning: Thanks to its gentle abrasive properties and alkaline pH, it cleans and deodorises the home, neutralising acidic odours.

Beauty care: It is also used in personal care products such as toothpastes, where it helps to whiten teeth and freshen breath.

Health: Bicarbonate of soda can relieve heartburn or acid indigestion by neutralising excess stomach acid.

Bicarbonate of soda is a highly versatile product that offers numerous benefits for cleaning and household maintenance. Here are some of the main uses and benefits of bicarbonate of soda for household cleaning:

• Multi-surface cleaner: Bicarbonate of soda is effective at cleaning various surfaces without scratching them. It’s ideal for cleaning kitchen worktops, stainless steel appliances, ceramic tiles and even plastic surfaces. Its slightly abrasive nature helps remove stubborn grime without damaging surfaces.

• Natural deodoriser: One of the most valued properties of bicarbonate of soda is its ability to neutralise odours. You can use it to freshen carpets and upholstery by sprinkling a light layer of bicarbonate of soda over them, leaving it to work for a few hours, then vacuuming it up. It is also effective at removing stubborn odours from fridges and bins.

• Removing stains and residue: Its slightly abrasive texture allows it to remove stains and food residue that have become ingrained in the shelves and walls of the fridge.

• Refreshing the ice cube tray: To remove unwanted odours and tastes from your ice cube tray, you can wash it with a solution of water and bicarbonate of soda.

Bicarbonate of Soda Eco-Cleaner 500g

A budget-friendly household staple, bicarbonate of soda helps clean and remove grease, leaving surfaces looking clean and shiny. Use it as a scouring powder to clean washbasins, showers, hobs, and tiled surfaces. As a deodoriser, it also helps neutralise unpleasant odours in the bin, the fridge, shoes, or cupboards.

1. Clean your fridge: Before you start, make sure your fridge is clean. Empty the fridge and clean the shelves, drawers, and interior walls with a mixture of lukewarm water and mild soap, or use a vinegar-and-water mixture for a completely natural alternative. Dry all surfaces after cleaning.

2. Place the bicarbonate of soda in the fridge: Pour some bicarbonate of soda into an open bowl or onto a small plate. Place the open container of bicarbonate of soda on one of the fridge shelves. The bicarbonate of soda will then absorb stubborn fridge odours, as if by magic.

3. Leave the bicarbonate of soda to work: Leave the bicarbonate of soda in the fridge at all times. It will continuously absorb unpleasant odours, helping to keep the inside of your fridge fresh and odour-free. For best results, stir the bicarbonate every now and then to expose fresh surfaces.

4. Change the bicarbonate of soda regularly: The bicarbonate of soda should be replaced roughly once a month to remain effective. Mark your calendar or set a reminder on your phone to replace it regularly.

To get rid of unwanted odours in the fridge naturally, several effective home remedies work besides bicarbonate of soda. Here are a few alternatives:

• White vinegar: White vinegar is an effective natural deodoriser. Dilute it with water, spray the solution inside the fridge, then wipe it down with a clean cloth.

• Ground coffee: Ground coffee is also a good odour absorber. Place a small dish containing ground coffee in your fridge to help neutralise odours.

• Activated charcoal: Activated charcoal is another natural odour absorber. You can find sachets of activated charcoal specially designed to be placed in the fridge to eliminate odours.

• Lemon: Cut a lemon in half and place it in your fridge to release its fresh scent and eliminate odours.

• Bicarbonate of soda and essential oils: You can mix bicarbonate of soda with a few drops of your favourite essential oils (such as lavender, lemon or tea tree) to create a natural and effective air freshener.

Although bicarbonate of soda is generally safe for domestic use, it must be used with caution. Excessive ingestion can disrupt the body’s acid-base balance, and its use as a cleaning product requires appropriate safety measures to prevent eye and skin irritation. Always keep it out of reach of children, in an airtight container, and away from direct light.

If the odours persist, clean the fridge again and check whether any food has been left behind or is hidden inside. Bicarbonate of soda can also clean and deodorise the fridge’s drawers and rubber seals.

Coralie has been a journalist and editor specialising in women’s interests for seven years. With a particular interest in topics related to beauty and wellbeing, she is passionate about highlighting the solutions nature offers for self-care and is always keen to stay informed on the subject so she can share the very best insights.